Description
A comforting British-style fish pie featuring mixed white fish in a creamy white sauce with peas and diced vegetables, topped with fluffy buttery mashed potatoes and baked to a golden finish.
Ingredients
Fish & Sauce
- 1 ½ lbs mixed white fish (cod, haddock), cut into chunks
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Mashed Potato Topping
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter (for mashing)
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them thoroughly with butter until smooth and fluffy. Set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In a saucepan, gently cook the finely chopped onion and diced carrot in a little butter or oil until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the white sauce (roux): Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the cooked vegetables, then sprinkle the flour over and whisk continuously to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to create a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.
- Add fish and peas: Gently fold in the mixed white fish chunks and frozen peas into the sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the peas are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika to taste.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the fish and vegetable sauce mixture into a baking dish. Evenly spread the mashed potato topping over the fish mixture, smoothing it with a spatula.
- Bake the pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the mashed potato topping is golden and slightly crispy on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. This hearty and creamy fish pie pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- For more variety, add shrimp or salmon along with the white fish.
- You can substitute some or all of the milk with cream for a richer sauce.
- Adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking adds a delicious crust.
- Ensure fish pieces are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Use fresh or good-quality frozen fish for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British